[Salavee]

Below is a pretty good overview of what the Rut structure is all about.

Call the complete rut cycle the Rut or call the Female's peak estrous cycle the complete Rut, it doesn't really matter.. it never changes much.

"In our service area in Oklahoma and Texas, the peak of the rut is generally in mid-late November. A common belief is that cooler weather is responsible for the increased rutting activity at this time; however, photoperiod is the primary contributor. During this two to three week period, most does come into estrous for the first time of the season. Does are receptive for around 24 hours. If they are not bred during this time frame, they generally recycle in three to four weeks. A doe will recycle several times; however, failure to conceive during the first or second estrous period may indicate an improper buck to doe ratio. As the peak of the rut approaches, there is an increase in bucks chasing does (usually before she is receptive) and bucks tending does (usually during a doe's receptive period). These activities are often witnessed by hunters and are often what hunters are speaking about when they talk about the rut. Most antler fights occur during this period as well; however, most male encounters are settled without physical altercation. Frequency of antler fights declines after the peak of the rut."